Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Tuesday issued a directive to National Environment Management Authority of Kenya (NEMA) to launch a crackdown on noise pollution In Nairobi.
Announcing the directive through his official X account, the CS noted the crackdown will evolve into a nation-wide anti-pollution campaign in bid to suppress noise pollution in the bustling City of Nairobi.
“I have directed NEMA's Nairobi office to launch a major crackdown on pollution, targeting noise from clubs, nighttime construction, improper waste disposal and air quality,” he ordered.
The crackdown will include NEMA Police Unit and other agencies. The multi-agency team will go around the suburbs of Nairobi targeting mainly entertainment joints, construction sites and factories to ensure they comply with environmental laws.
“The multi-agency operation, led by NEMA Police Unit, marks the beginning of a nationwide anti-pollution campaign,” he asserted.
“Going forward, NEMA will not permit clubs in residential areas unless they fully comply with soundproofing and environmental laws,” he added.
Noise regulations by NEMA stipulate that it is illegal to make or engage in activities that cause disturbance to nearby people. “No person shall make or cause to be made any loud, unreasonable, unnecessary or unusual noise which annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health or safety of others and the environment,” reads a noise regulations in part.
The CS further sent a stern warning to business owners who are engaged in activities that pollute the environment to stop or else they will be arrested and prosecuted.
“The era of impunity by club owners and private developers must end,” he warned highlighting for a business to operate it needs to be vetted and licensed by NEMA.
It comes barely two days after the CS on Sunday ordered the closure of Nairobi’s Fay Bistro located in Kilimani over extreme noise pollution. Residents living in the vicinity had raised concerns over noise emanating from the facility.
CS Duale’s order was an intervention after Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geofrey Moisira was blocked by an alleged owner to check whether the had adhered to soundproofing laws.
In his order, CS Duale ordered NEMA Director General accompanied by the NEMA Police unit to enforce the closure of the entertainment joint located in the outskirts of Nairobi.
